Konica Minolta and FUJIFILM explore partnership
The two manufacturers are looking at the feasibility of a partnership in production printing
Shining a spotlight on the industry
Thursday, 18 Apr 2024 14:49 GMT
Konica Minolta and FUJIFILM have begun proceedings to collaborate in the future
Print hardware manufacturers FUJIFILM Business Innovation and Konica Minolta have announced they are exploring a potential strategic alliance in order to optimise procurement, toner development, and production efficiencies.
The potential partnership aligns with the increasing number of collaborations taking place amongst manufacturers as well as businesses as profits tighten and competition gets fiercer.
Recently AGFA and EFI have entered into a global partnership to integrate one another’s technologies into both portfolios. Hardware and software provider Ricoh has looked to expand its hardware capabilities via a partnership with Flora Digital.
FUJIFILM and Konica Minolta’s alliance would be in the multifunction printer (MFP), office printer, and production printer segments of the two companies.
Konica Minolta says the “rapidly evolving market landscape” requires “proactive measures” hence the consideration for a business alliance.
The agreement would include the procurement of raw materials and parts with the venture aiming to be established by the second quarter of 2024’s financial year, of which FUJIFILM Business Innovation would have majority share.
The partnership would also look at the development of toner and other potential strategic collaborations in the future.
Naoki Hama, president and chief executive officer of FUJIFILM Business Innovation, comments: “The ongoing discussions for this business alliance are of immense importance as we strive to strengthen our competitiveness and expand our global presence to make a significant leap forward.
“We are confident that this partnership will create a new framework to enhance our supply chain and build a robust business foundation.”
Toshimitsu Taiko, president and chief executive officer of Konica Minolta, says: “I am looking forward to working together to improve investment efficiency and cost-competitiveness, strengthen capabilities for stable supply, environmental initiatives, and business continuity plans (BCP), and pursue the potential for enhancing business resilience as global manufacturers.”
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